A public easement is an easement that gives all people (the public) the right to use and enjoy a tract of property such as a street, sidewalk, park, or beach.
In South Dakota, a public easement is a type of right-of-way that allows the general public to use and access certain pieces of land for specific purposes, such as streets, sidewalks, parks, or beaches. Public easements are typically established through dedication by a property owner, by prescription, or by necessity. Once established, they are recorded and maintained by local government entities. The public's right to use an easement is protected by law, and interference with this right can lead to legal action. South Dakota codified laws (SDCL) govern the creation, regulation, and enforcement of public easements. These laws ensure that public easements are used for their intended purposes and that the rights of both the public and the property owners are respected.